Freedom in the Dismal

Monifa Love's novel _Freedom in the Dismal_ tells the love story through letters and journals of Camille and David, separated before their planned wedding date by David's incarceration. Juxtaposed with this story is an intercutting of testimony and tribunal of ancestors whose lives were impacted by American slavery. At the center of it all is the Dismal Swamp, where some found a species of freedom. This book explores the species of freedoms that we encounter today as well as those we inherit from our history. This was a sensitive labyrinth with shining truths. I highly recommend this novel.

Freedom in the Dismal is an excellent book!!!!! It is very moving and powerful because the characters are so wonderfully developed and negotiated within the work. Love does a great job of conveying the harships and pleasures that accompany the lives of two riveting lovers and their families. Love guides the reader through a multitude of emotions and experiences--this work cannot and should not be tossed off lightly. Instead it should be honored for its meticulous detail and intrinsic passion. I gladly give it five stars and do not doubt that others will enjoy it as much as I did. Brava to Love for this amazing first novel!

"This is a small book with an enormous scope, depth and power.It forces us to acknowledge that we all have stories and that we are impacted, daily by the stories of all who have come before. This book is a perfect blend of poetry and narrative. I thank Dr. Love for taking us on this journey."